What do you need to know about the pop-up-tent-trailer?

About the pop-up-tent-trailer

They have many names for the same thing that include the folding-trailer, the tent-trailer, tent-camper, camping-trailer and of course the pop-up-tent-trailer.

Why? That’s an easy question and it is because they are foldable or collapsible camping units which try to include many of the basic Travel Trailer features at a lower cost, and smaller package to make towing easier.

The usual construction method is a rectangular box on a trailer, with a larger, expanding tent which is attached to the box. Many models also incorporate a rigid roof and lifting system to speed up the erection process

What are the Advantages of a pop-up-tent-trailer

The big advantage over a travel trailer is the physical size. The tow weight and physical exterior size are significantly less, and this is extremely important when using small or low powered tow vehicles. As they have a minimal weight and minimal frontal surface area, towing is excellent for the occasional user.

An additional advantage is the manoeuvrability of the smaller trailers is much improved, and in most cases there is full viewing over and around the trailers while towing. When set up the interior size is surprisingly spacious when compared to the towed size. The advantages of a pop-up-tent-trailer over traditional tent camping are obvious during wet weather and you are camped off the ground.

What are the typical pop-up-tent-trailer sizes

The Small Units are based around an 8 foot box length and under. They suit low powered and small tow vehicles. The weight is typically around 800-1200 lbs. They have a basic interior of beds, sink, table, stove and possibly an ice cooler.

The Medium Units are around an 8 foot box length up to around 10 ft. They compromise accessories and storage space against weight and price. Weight is typically 1200-1600 lbs. They generally come with additional creature comforts such as a porta-potty, heater, water tanks, closets and storage areas.

The Large Units are around a box length exceeding 10 ft. The weight ranges from 1600 lbs and up, with the well equipped large ones over 2000 lbs.

What are the Typical equipment and Accessories of a pop-up-tent-trailer

The typical equipment listing of folding trailers that are sleeping 5 or more include a sink, table, ice box, stove, some storage and porta-potty. They will often have a 12 volt lighting system and a 110 volt plug-in system. Water can be pumped up from an onboard tank, and also conveniently turned on via faucet from a hose connected to an exterior camp ground water source.

The most common accessories include a divided sink, inside-outside table, gas/electric refrigerator, built-in potty, hotwater heater, shower, inside-outside stove or multiple stoves, closet, mirror, roof vent, forced air heat, additional drapes or blinds, pantry, spice and magazine racks. Multiple water sources, electric water pumps, 110V to 12V converters are common as are outside awnings, screen rooms and outside lights. Underneath, spare tire carriers, built-on stabilizers and built-in water tanks are also common. Many can also be equipped with air conditioning, bike and accessory racks. Also up to 2 propane tanks and 12V deep cycle battery are often installed

What are the Typical Lift Systems of a pop-up-tent-trailer

The cable system is a simple cable and pulley system. Cables are pulled via a crank or hydraulic cylinder which lifts vertical assemblies on each corner of the roof.

The flexible rod system incorporates flexible rods which push up on the 4 corners of the roof and lift it straight up. These can also be crank or hydraulic cylinder actuated.

The Exterior linkage system incorporates mechanical bars and pivots exterior to the trailer box. This often requires manual pivoting and lifting in order to raise the roof.

What are the Axle Systems used in a pop-up-tent-trailer

Straight Axle - This is a very common trailer type axle setup which comprises a fixed member connecting both wheel spindles. Connection to the trailer frame is usually via leaf springs on two points per side. Advantages include more even distribution of the load on the trailer frame and simple parts and repairs.

Torsion Axle - This is the other common axle type used. Each wheel spindle is connected to its own torsion bar/axle assembly. This axle type allows fully independent suspension with minimal space requirement in what is a very simple design. As the load is not as evenly distributed, this axle design requires better frame support. The major advantages include smoother riding of the trailer and contents.

What are pop-up-tent-trailer Construction

The typical construction of a camping trailer is a box with an aluminum skinned exterior. This is usually supported on a metal ladder- style frame. The flooring and bed construction usually comprises a waterproof plywood or construction board. The tenting material is usually a variety of fabrics that include cotton, vinyl and acrylic. The material quality is directly cost related, you get the best and it lasts. If the tenting material being used is not mildew resistant, it is extremely important not to store the Folding Trailer in a closed state with the tenting wet for any extended period of time. Most folding trailers have a hard roof

The majority of folding tent trailers open so they extend over the hitch and out the back with entry from the side. Although some trailers allow being setup while still being attached to the tow vehicle, most have to be unhooked before being set up. Also there are a few tent trailer models which open out the sides with entry either over the tongue or out the back.

What pop-up-tent-trailer will you choose?